Row over Sordar’s suspension
SHILLONG: Supporters of the ousted Sordar of Shnat Raid Tynring began an indefinite hunger strike at the KHADC premises that continued into the night on Thursday demanding the withdrawal of suspension of the Sordar, CA Diengdoh even as the Council constituted an inquiry into the various allegations against him.
A large number of villagers, mostly women, from Tynring decided to go on an indefinite hunger strike after the KHADC failed to meet the April 5 deadline given to it to come clear on the reason for suspension of the Sordar.
Initially, the villagers were prevented from entering the Council premises, but they were allowed in eventually following protests.
To maintain law and order in the area, police rushed to the spot to take stock of the situation. The district administration also deputed the Special Operation Team (SOT) to ensure that the villagers do not create any law and order problem during the course of their hunger strike.
“We will continue the indefinite hunger strike as long as the KHADC does not withdraw the suspension order against our Sordar,” executive member of the Dorbar Shnong of Tynring, Damehi Warpakyntein told reporters.
According to a notification issued by the Executive Committee of the KHADC on March 16, Diengdoh has been suspended as Sordar of Shnat Raid Tynring as per section 9 (3) of the United Khasi Jaiñtia Hills Autonomous District (Appointment and Succession of Chiefs and Headmen) Act, 1959. However, no reason was cited in the notification for putting Diengdoh under suspension.
In the place of Diengdoh, the KHADC has appointed Hamlet Mylliempdah (Myntri of Hima Khyrim) as the acting Sordar of Shnat Raid Tynring.
Meanwhile, EM in charge Elaka, KP Pangngiang said that the Council has constituted an inquiry into the various allegations against the Sordar. The inquiry committee will be headed by Pangngiang and EM in charge Land, Morningstar Mawsor.
“We suspended Diengdoh after receiving complaints about his various illegal activities,” he said.
According to Pangngiang, one of the major allegations against Diengdoh is his attempt to sell 1000 acres of community land to the MUDA without the consent of the village Dorbar.
The EM in charge Elaka said that the Council will immediately re-instate him if it is found that the allegations against the Sordar are ‘unfounded’.
Village treasurer Marshall Nongrum, meanwhile, informed that an RTI was filed on March 26 seeking clarification on the reason behind the suspension of the Sordar.
“We are also contemplating to move the court against the order of the KHADC,” Nongrum added.